Ethical Artificial Intelligence Awareness and Digital Divide/Cybersecurity Issues among Library and Information Science Professionals of Selected Academic Libraries in South-South and South-West, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined Ethical Artificial Intelligence awareness and perceptions of Digital Divide/Cybersecurity issues among Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals in selected polytechnics and universities in South-South and SouthWest Nigeria. As academic libraries increasingly adopt AI-driven systems, concerns regarding algorithmic bias, unequal access to digital resources, and cybersecurity vulnerabilities have become more pronounced. A descriptive survey design was employed, and purposive sampling was used to select 132 LIS professionals with relevant experience in digital library systems. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered through KoboToolbox and analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, mean, and standard deviation. The findings revealed a moderate level of Ethical Artificial Intelligence awareness among LIS professionals, with notable limitations in their ability to critically evaluate AI-generated outputs and apply ethical AI principles in practice. The study also found that Digital Divide and Cybersecurity issues constitute significant challenges to academic library service delivery, particularly with respect to poor digital infrastructure, unequal access to ICT resources, inadequate cybersecurity readiness, and insufficient staff training. The study concluded that while LIS professionals are increasingly exposed to emerging technologies, their preparedness to address Ethical AI and Digital Divide/Cybersecurity challenges remains limited. The study recommends continuous professional development on Ethical Artificial Intelligence and increased investment in digital infrastructure and cybersecurity capacity-building programmes to enhance equitable, secure, and sustainable library service delivery.